Florida hosts some of the most popular amusement parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. While these parks offer thrilling attractions and memorable experiences, accidents can and do occur. If you’ve been injured at an amusement park, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, PA, is an experienced Florida personal injury law firm with amusement park accident lawyers dedicated to fighting for justice for our clients’ injuries. Our team works vigorously to hold negligent parties accountable and recover the compensation our clients deserve.
Leading Causes of Amusement Park Injuries in Florida
Amusement parks are designed to provide fun and excitement, but accidents can still happen despite safety measures. From thrilling rides to crowded areas, the potential for injuries exists in various parts of the park. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), amusement park accidents resulted in 1,299 injuries in the US in 2019, the last year data was available. Understanding the common causes of amusement park accidents can help pinpoint what led to your injury and who may be responsible.
Some of the most frequent causes of amusement park injuries include:
- Ride malfunctions and mechanical failures: Breakdowns, structural defects, or operational issues can cause severe injuries to riders
- Slip and fall accidents: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, or inadequate lighting often result in visitors slipping or falling
- Operator errors: Mistakes made by ride operators, like failing to follow safety protocols, can create dangerous situations
- Collisions and impact injuries: These occur when riders collide with objects, structures, or other individuals within the park
- Lack of proper maintenance: Failing to conduct routine inspections and repairs can make rides and facilities unsafe
- Overcrowding and long lines: Poor crowd control can lead to pushing, trampling, or other injuries in congested areas
- Inadequate safety equipment: Missing or faulty restraints, harnesses, or other safety gear increases the likelihood of injuries
Each amusement park accident is unique and requires careful investigation to determine liability. Whether it’s a mechanical issue or unsafe park conditions, identifying the cause of your injury is a critical first step in pursuing compensation. Our Florida amusement park injury attorney helps hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Types of Injuries From Amusement Park Accidents in Florida
Amusement parks are meant to create enjoyable and memorable experiences, but accidents can sometimes disrupt these visits. The severity and type of injuries often depend on the ride, attraction, or specific circumstances.
Common injuries at amusement parks include:
- Neck injuries: Abrupt starts, stops, or sharp movements on rides can strain or injure the neck
- Cuts, bruises, and abrasions: Sharp edges, rough surfaces, or ride components can lead to minor injuries such as scrapes or lacerations
- Fractures and sprains: Falls, impacts, or sudden jolts during rides may result in broken bones or sprained joints
- Whiplash: High-speed or spinning rides can cause sudden movements that strain the neck and upper back, leading to whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Head injuries can occur from direct impacts or severe jarring motions, potentially resulting in concussions or more severe brain trauma
- Drowning incidents: Water rides, slides, or pools pose risks of drowning or near-drowning, mainly if proper safety measures aren’t in place
- Heat-related illnesses: Extended exposure to the sun or long wait times during hot weather can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke
- Strains and muscle injuries: Sudden, forceful movements or poor positioning during rides may lead to muscle strains or sprains
- Psychological distress: Unexpected incidents or particularly intense rides can trigger fear, anxiety, or panic attacks
- Crush injuries: Being pinned or trapped under ride components can cause significant injuries
- Fatal accidents: In extreme cases, accidents can lead to loss of life, leaving family members to pursue wrongful death claims
The extent of your injuries is a critical determinant in the compensation you may recover. Hiring legal assistance is crucial to determining responsibility and securing damages for your losses.
What Damages Can You Recover After an Amusement Park Injury?
If you’ve been injured at a Florida amusement park, you may be entitled to recover various types of compensation. These damages aim to address your accident’s physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
Common recoverable damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Disability and disfigurement
- Punitive damages
Our skilled legal team will thoroughly evaluate your case to identify all potential damages and develop a strategy to secure the maximum recovery. We handle the complexities of gathering evidence and fighting for your rights in court if necessary.
Consult a Trusted Florida Amusement Park Accident Lawyer
Amusement parks should be enjoyable, but accidents can turn a fun day into a devastating experience. At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, PA, we understand victims’ challenges after amusement park accidents. From investigating the incident to negotiating with insurance companies, our knowledgeable team will handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
Our amusement park injury attorneys have over 100 years of combined legal experience, with the resources to fight for the fair compensation you deserve. Don’t let negligence go unaddressed. Contact us at (407) 843-7060 or complete a contact form to schedule a free consultation with our seasoned amusement park accident lawyers today.
Legally Written and Reviewed by a Managing Partner
Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis
Our content is written and reviewed by our founding attorneys Butch Wooten, Orman Kimbrough, Mike Damaso, and Tom Dennis. With over 100 years of combined courtroom experience, they’ve successfully handled thousands of personal injury cases across Florida. Whether you’re a Florida resident or an out-of-state visitor injured in Florida, we’re dedicated to providing clear and reliable information to help you navigate your legal options confidently.